Priya Restaurant, East Ham

Authentic Southern Indian Cuisine Delight

Stepping into this hidden culinary beacon just across from East Ham station, I absolved myself of previous scepticism and was instantly met by a wave of satisfying aromas. The restaurant hums with the vibrancy of South Asian cuisine, offering a menu rich in both variety and tradition. Despite initial impressions from several negative reviews suggesting a spotty dining experience, my visit unfolded much like discovering an authentic street food stall perched amongst the chaos and rhythms of Colombo: bustling, imperfect, yet bursting with heart.

The king prawn biryani is easily the crown jewel—a dish imbued with spices that dance across the palate, revealing layers of complexity with every bite. While the dim lighting posed a slight challenge in appreciating the food's presentation, it undeniably added to the atmosphere, best suited for unwinding rather than precisely studying the menu. In weaving through the kaleidoscopic options of both vegetarian and non-vegetarian delights, the mutton chukka stood resilient, certain to impress with its bold preparation. Service swung between adequate and genial, seeming to arrive at serendipitous moments just as needed. As one who values occasional imperfections that come with character, I must admit, few places manage to offer both an experience of culinary adventure and the warmth of hospitality quite like this unassuming establishment. — Nigel Gourmet